There was a time when basketball sneakers worn by NBA players and the casual shoes we wear in our day-to-day lives would be the same. But of course, in this day and age, kicks worn by players are at par with the latest iPhone technology (well, figuratively). One of the greatest athletes in the world, some even as tall as 6’8, glide through their game like Superman with the advent of high-tech shoes. For decades now, brands like Nike and Adidas have collaborated with many NBA icons like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Kawhi Leonard, James Harden and many more. They have unveiled designs, which not only look striking but enhance the performances. Let’s take a look at the most popular basketball shoes that NBA players love to wear.
Michael Jordan may have retired from basketball a long time ago, but players and fans world over still can’t get over his signature shoes. A better version of the Jordan 31, Air Jordan 32 is the most successful series by Nike. Equipped with a Flyknit fabric, it is super light and adjusts to the size of the feet. It also helps your feet breathe with its airflow system and thin sock. The Air Cushioning System is one of the best on the market and provides excellent support to the heels.
Air Jordan 32
Stephen Curry has not only been ruling on the court with his skills but also with his shoe line ‘Curry 4’ that is quite a hit. The legend’s popularity has inspired millions of kids to buy these insanely light shoes that might just compel everyone to ask themselves, “Am I wearing shoes right now?” Curry 4 is all about stability and control, maintaining a minimum cushioning for protection.
Under Armour Curry 4
Surprisingly enough, these premium basketball shoes by Nike do not have the name of any basketball legend attached to them but are a hit with most players. It boasts of the signature Nike react Technology that offers ultra cushioning, great support and eases the stress while landing. The Pressure-Mapped outsole is specially designed to divide the pressure of the feet and give traction in the desired areas. It has a Responsive approach, which gives extra swiftness and power. This is one of the best shoes of last year and looks promising even in 2018.
Nike Hyper Dunk 2017
One of the latest versions of the brand’s most popular sneakers, the Adidas Crazy Explosive 2017 Primeknit is what all Adidas-signed NBA players wear if they officially don’t own their signature kicks. Rising players like Andrew Wiggins, Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis have been lovers of this pure sock-sneaker. Unlike the Dame 4, it has a unique Adidas Boost sole and one of the bounciest soles on the market. But experts suggest that the comfort factor may not be at par with the other shoes as it has an ultra-squishy upper and sloppy underfoot.
Adidas Crazy Explosive 2017 Primeknit
This is Damian Lillard’s fourth signature sneaker, but he is not the only player who is a fan of the Dame 4. Many other players like Clippers guard Austin Rivers cannot get enough of this shoe model.
One of the most impressive features of the shoe is the mesh upper fused with Neoprene, which offers high support and resistance. Even the Bounce Cushioning Technology in the midsole packs maximum power on the court and the Neoprene collar gives an amazing fit.
Adidas Dame 4
LeBron James, Nike’s highest-profile athlete, is attached to this marquee basketball sneaker. Although the LeBron 15 has a sock-sneaker design, it’s is one helluva sturdy piece, courtesy its new Nike Flyknit upper ‘Battleknit’. LeBron’s signature kicks are not only cool on-court, but can also be worn in everyday life with athleisure-themed outfits. With that unmatchable Nike Zoom and Nike Air sole, you’ll almost feel like you’re walking on clouds.
Nike LeBron 15
